The Rise, Reign, and Rapid Fall of the Powdered Wig

A Story of Fashion, Status, and Society

In the latter half of the 18th century, powdered wigs weren’t just a fashion statement—they symbolized wealth, status, and power. But by the early 19th century, natural short hair became trendy, and wigs fell out of favor almost as quickly as they rose. Let’s explore their dramatic journey—from dominance to downfall, and their unexpected revival among Gen Z.

From Concealment to Crown: How Wigs Took Over

In 17th-century Europe, a full hairline was associated with nobility. But syphilis—rampant at the time—caused hair loss and sores, making baldness a source of stigma. Enter wigs (or “perukes”) as a clever cover-up.

The trend exploded when France’s King Louis XIV and England’s King Charles II began losing hair. By age 17, Louis XIV employed 48 wigmakers! Their influence made wigs a must-have among nobles and eventually merchants and elites. What started as disguise became a high-status statement.

Big Wigs and Big Money

Wigs became extravagant markers of class. A simple wig cost 25 shillings (a week’s wages), while nobles spent hundreds. That’s how the phrase “bigwig” was born—those who wore the biggest, most elaborate wigs were literally important people.

In France, women like Marie Antoinette took it further. Towering wigs adorned with feathers, ribbons, and jewels became the rage, requiring hours to style.

American Revolution and the Changing Tide

During the American Revolution, wigs began fading. Though many early American leaders had white hair, it was often powdered natural hair—not wigs. George Washington, for example, never wore a wig. He powdered his red hair white, aligning with fashion without embracing aristocracy.

Wigs became symbols of European elitism—something the revolutionaries actively rejected.

Wigs in the Military: Style vs. Function

British military officers wore “Ramillies wigs”—short, tied pigtails. These were different from the grand court wigs. Common soldiers rarely wore wigs due to their impracticality and discomfort, opting instead for braided and powdered natural hair.

The Fall: Enlightenment, Economy, and Ethics

By the late 1700s, wigs were seen as symbols of excess and inequality. The Enlightenment favored simplicity and reason, and the French Revolution linked wigs with the overthrown aristocracy.

Britain’s 1795 Hair Powder Act imposed heavy taxes, making wigs even costlier. Wigs began to symbolize not just vanity—but deception.

Modern Legacy and the Gen Z Revival

Today, wigs are ceremonial in places like British courts. But their story continues—especially with Gen Z.

On TikTok and Instagram, wigs are tools of bold self-expression. Gen Z uses them to explore gender, culture, and creativity—from pastel pixie cuts to dramatic fantasy styles. Wigs are no longer about hiding; they’re about highlighting identity.

Could the Big Wig Make a Comeback?

Fashion is cyclical. As minimalism wanes, bold wigs could return—revamped with sustainable materials and tech-enhanced designs. For Gen Z, the wig isn’t just hair—it’s a statement, an attitude, and a reinvention of the past.